SOP-003 water sampling on board ship

Genetic analysis of marine water samples based on eDNA methods assumes that samples are taken in a very clean and conscientious way avoiding every potential risk of contamination with other eDNA molecules that do not belong to the respective water sample. A rosette sampler with a CTD sensing system that is equipped with 5-L-Niskin bottles is used for water sampling. Samples are collected at the desired stations during surveys on research vessels. To prove the absence of DNA contamination every survey should include a sampling control from each Niskin bottle used. Careful cleaning of used gears, materials and surrounding areas is a main requirement to yield reliable results in genetic downstream analysis. To guarantee the traceability of the samples, correct labelling and documentation of water sampling are needed.